A Supreme Court decision is expected this week on whether Queensland Health acted lawfully when it banned puberty blockers for transgender minors in public clinics — a directive that has sparked protests and renewed debate over the politicisation of trans healthcare.

Dozens of people gathered outside the Supreme Court of Queensland in Brisbane last week to chant “trans power” amid claims the ban introduced back in January will cost lives.

“This government is just appealing to a small minority of far-right people who want to bring Trump-style hate and division to Australia, and we’re here to say no,” said Trans Justice Project’s Jodie Hall.

The restriction on the use of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones for new patients under 18 diagnosed with gender dysphoria was originally announced by Dr David Rosengren, the Queensland Health director-general.